We previously saw NY1 reveals that dozens of Democratic aides in Albany have received “hundreds of thousands of dollars” in raises since December: For example, the deputy chief of staff for Nassau state senator Craig Johnson, “whose salary climbed 63 percent, from $47,500 in 2008 to $77,500 this year.” Democrats explain that their aides work hard. “Their level of responsibility has only increased since January 7,” says Johnson’s spokesman. “Remember, staff don’t get paid for a Saturday and Sunday and overtime,” says majority leader Malcolm Smith (pictured).